Minnesota has a proud tradition of military service. Since the Civil War, Minnesotans have heeded the call to serve our country. And the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) has an obligation to serve the more than 278,000 Veterans and their families living in Minnesota today.

I am grateful every day that MDVA has the support and partnership of a multitude of Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) to ensure our Veterans are indeed recognized and supported once their service is completed.

The Minnesota Commanders’ Task Force (CTF) is comprised of the eight Congressionally chartered VSOs. As the elected leaders of these respective organizations, they meet regularly to discuss the emerging issues affecting Veterans and their families.

CTF organizations include:

• American Legion Department of Minnesota
• Minnesota Department of the American Veterans Association (AMVETS)
• Disabled American Veterans Department of Minnesota (DAV)
• Paralyzed Veterans of American Minnesota Chapter (PVA)
• Military Order of the Purple Heart Department of Minnesota
• Jewish War Veterans of the United States Department of Minnesota
• Marine Corps League Department of Minnesota
• Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Minnesota (VFW)

This summer, Pam Krill, American Legion Department of Minnesota Commander, was elected as the chair of the CTF.

I meet monthly with CTF members to learn about their organizations’ current priorities, issues they are addressing and requests for support from MDVA. Our partnership is strong and productive and an asset to Minnesota Veterans and their families.

In addition to the CTF, Minnesota is fortunate to have a wide range of VSOs that support our Veterans and their families. I am proud to recognize many of them when the Minnesota Twins host a Veterans Services Organization Day game on Saturday, September 12, where about 20 organizations will be featured and thanked for their tireless work. The game offers a valuable opportunity to raise awareness of the resources available around the state. These organizations are passionate about their missions – from providing canine companions and outdoor adventures to transportation to medical appointments and mental health counseling. We are deeply grateful for their dedication and the difference they make for Minnesota’s Veterans and their families.

Thank you to all Minnesota Veterans for your service! As always, if you need information or support on any Veteran issue, please visit our website, contact your County Veterans Service Officer or contact LinkVet at 1-888-LinkVet.